Park Ridge Library Discussion Questions
OCTOBER SKY by Homer Hickam Jr.

  1. What special attributes does Homer have that helped him in his quest to be a rocket scientist?

  2. Describe Homer's mother. What is her relationship to Homer? To her husband?

  3. The Coal Mine Company has such an invasive relationship to the town. Was it healthy? Does this type of relationship occur in other industries? Does this type of relationship exist today?

  4. So many of the miners root for Homer. Why doesn't Homer's Dad share his dream? Why is it easier for him to show his pride in Jim?

  5. Homer's Mom slaps Homer and calls him selfish. Why does she think he's selfish? Is he?

  6. Homer feels guilty over Sy Bykovski's death. Should he feel this way?

  7. Why did Homer represent the BCMC at the state science fair? Was he the best choice?

  8. Could you identify with Homer's inspiration for rockets upon hearing about Sputnik? Do you remember those times?

  9. How does the book convey a sense of the '50s?

  10. The book has been criticized for poor writing style, fictionalized dialogue and corny scenes between Homer and the girls in his school. Do you agree with the critics? What are the strengths of the book? Could it have been a better novel?

  11. How is Coaltown portrayed? What is Homer's Dad's position in the community and how does this position affect Homer?

  12. The movie changed the title of the book from ROCKET BOYS to OCTOBER SKY. Which title seems more appropriate?

  13. Friendship is a key theme of the book. Describe Homer's friends and the part they played.

  14. How has the feeling towards the space program changed since the times referred to in this book?

  15. Miss Riley took such a special interest in Homer. Would that sort of teacher-student relationship exist today?

Questions created by Vivian Mortensen, Head of Reader Services at the Park Ridge Public Library.